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Itinerary

DAYS 1- 2: QUITO ARRIVAL AND PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS

We arrive in Quito and transfer to our hotel to settle in. Next, we’ll venture out to the Papallacta area where we enjoy a nature walk in the Andes and soak in the hot springs. After dinner, we’ll watch a Galápagos slideshow regarding the biogeography and natural history of the islands.

DAYS 3-4: GALÁPAGOS ARRIVAL AND ISABELA ISLAND

Fly from Quito airport to the Island of Baltra and then travel by private boat to Isabela Island. Once there, we’ll settle into the hotel and head to the Flamingo Lagoon to enjoy the sunset and avid bird life. In the morning, we learn to snorkel in the Concha Perla Lagoon. After lunch, we cross a channel to nearby Islote Tintoreras where we get to snorkel with penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas and colorful tropical fish while enjoying the beaches of Isabela.

DAYS 5-6: TORTOISE PROJECT AND SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO

Next, we visit a giant tortoise breeding center to volunteer by repairing fences for the tortoise grounds and doing general maintenance for the tortoise breeding program. We also learn about conservation efforts in the Galápagos and see the development of coastal ecosystems and examine plant adaptations to different environments we visit. The following day, we move inland where we explore the Sierra Negra Volcano, the world’s second largest volcanic crater!

DAYS 7-8: LOS TUNELES SNORKELING AND CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH CENTER

Travel one hour to the to visit Los Tuneles, an amazing snorkeling site where penguins, turtles, manta rays, sharks, and sea lions are almost always present in crystalline waters surrounding an intricate complex of lava tunnels. This is one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galápagos both aesthetically and for viewing sea life. The next day we return to Puerto Ayora. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn even more about the natural history of the Galapagos and conservation work.

DAYS 9- 10: QUITO AND DEPARTURE

After breakfast, we return from the Galápagos to Quito for our overnight connecting flight back home.